Hong Kong – The September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair 2018, Asia’s premier jewelry event, concluded with a dazzling display of creativity and craftsmanship at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Among the standout moments of the fair was the seventh annual JNA Awards ceremony, where pioneering figures and exceptional brands from the international jewelry industry were celebrated in a star-studded event on September 17th.
JNA Awards Recognize Trailblazers in the Jewelry Industry
The JNA Awards, organized by UBM Asia, honored 44 finalists across 12 categories, with 15 of them receiving prestigious accolades for their contributions to innovation, leadership, and excellence in jewelry and gemstone craftsmanship. Prida Tiasuwan, Chairman of Pranda Jewelry Public Co Ltd, received the highly respected Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication to promoting Thailand’s jewelry on the global stage. His leadership has been instrumental in elevating both his company and the broader industry.
Carrera y Carrera Steals the Spotlight with “The Kiss of the Dragon” Collection
One of the night’s most celebrated moments was the recognition of Carrera y Carrera, the renowned Spanish jewelry brand, which has had a flagship boutique in Hong Kong since 2012. The brand presented its latest collection, The Kiss of the Dragon, crafted by acclaimed designer Alexandra Chudakova. Known for her innovative approach, Chudakova was awarded a special honor for her exceptional development in jewelry design.
Representatives from Carrera y Carrera personally presented the award to Chudakova, acknowledging her groundbreaking contributions to the brand’s iconic aesthetic. The Kiss of the Dragon collection, inspired by ancient myth and adorned with exquisite detailing, blends Carrera y Carrera’s signature artistry with Chudakova’s vision, capturing the essence of the mythical dragon in stunning gold and gemstone designs.
Chudakova, celebrated for her ability to breathe life into metal and precious stones, shared her gratitude: “Receiving this award is a true honor, as it reflects the hard work and dedication that go into every piece. The Kiss of the Dragon is more than a collection; it embodies a blend of history, legend, and artistry that is central to Carrera y Carrera’s legacy.”
Celebrating Innovation and Excellence in the Jewelry Industry
Letitia Chow, Chairperson of the JNA Awards and Director of Business Development – Jewellery Group at UBM Asia, commended the honorees, emphasizing the importance of resilience and innovation in the industry. “This year’s recipients have embraced creativity and adaptability to drive their businesses forward. It is a privilege to celebrate these companies and individuals who are setting new standards in jewelry and gemstone craftsmanship,” Chow remarked.
As the 2018 Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair came to a close, the industry celebrated not only its top talent but also a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and excellence.
